By: ALAYAKI ONA-ARA
As another political season draws near in Oyo State, many concerned citizens have begun to ask an important question — who can truly continue the good work Governor Seyi Makinde has started?
Governor Makinde’s administration has shown that governance can be people-focused and transparent. Under his watch, Oyo has witnessed new roads, stronger education, better welfare for workers, and an open style of leadership that gives everyone a sense of belonging. These gains must not be thrown away after 2027. What Oyo needs now is not an experiment, but a steady hand — someone who already understands the journey and can take it further without losing direction.
That is why the name Ambassador Taofeek Oladejo Arapaja keeps coming up wherever sincere discussions about Oyo’s future are held.
Arapaja is no stranger to service. From his early days as Chairman of Ibadan South-East Local Government, to serving as Deputy Governor of Oyo State, and later as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Jordan, he has shown calm maturity, loyalty, and deep understanding of leadership. His most recent role as Deputy National Chairman (South) of the PDP has only strengthened his reputation as a bridge-builder who commands respect across the country.
Those who have worked closely with him often describe him as a man who listens before he speaks — a leader who values people and never forgets where he started. In politics today, that kind of humility is rare.
Oyo does not need a newcomer learning on the job. The state needs someone who can hit the ground running, someone who knows the heartbeat of the people and the workings of government. Arapaja fits that description perfectly. His years of experience, both at home and abroad, have prepared him for moments like this.
Supporting Arapaja is not just about party loyalty or personal ambition; it is about protecting the progress that Oyo has already made. It is about ensuring that the next phase of our development is built on a strong foundation, not on trial and error. More importantly, Arapaja’s connection with the grassroots stands him out. He remains accessible to ordinary people — market women, artisans, youths, and community elders. He does not see politics as a show, but as service.
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As we move closer to 2027, Oyo must look beyond noise and drama. We must ask, who is prepared? Who can sustain the momentum? Who understands the people?
All fingers point to one man — Ambassador Taofeek Oladejo Arapaja. He carries the calmness of experience, the strength of character, and the readiness to build on Makinde’s vision. In him, Oyo can find the balance between continuity and progress — a leader tested by time, trusted by the people, and prepared for the task ahead.
Written by: Hon. Olumide Oduola (ALAYAKI ONA-ARA)
A devoted member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a proud son of Ona-Ara Local Government, Oyo State.
